Q&A with Surface Pattern & Print Designer Katie O’Shea, Featuring a Brand Photo Shoot in the Sausalito Studio
I’m so excited to introduce you to Katie O’Shea! Katie is a surface pattern designer and illustrator based in Fairfax, California. Her designs are featured on everything from fabric to wallpaper and even a fun shoe collaboration.
Katie and I captured fresh brand photos in The Sausalito Studio, joined by Jonathan Reisfeld for hair/makeup. Together we captured a mix of headshots (with a few of Katie’s pretty fabric designs as the backdrop), lifestyle portraits, a candid peek behind the scenes at her artistic process and some of her stunning designs. When Katie and I first connected, she was in the midst of her 100-Day Project on Instagram, be sure to follow along to check out all the magic she created for 100 days straight.
Enjoy reading more about Katie’s transition to surface design, what’s ahead in her business, advice for entrepreneurs and a few of her favorite small businesses.
Name: Katie O’Shea
Title: Print Designer
Business: Katie O’Shea Design
HQ Location: Fairfax, CA
Instagram: @katie_oshea_design
1. Tell us all about your business!
I am a freelance surface pattern designer and illustrator. I supply designs to fabric, wallpaper and home decor companies. My illustrations will be published in a book and an upcoming calendar which will be distributed nationwide.
2. Prior to surface design, you were working in graphic design. How did you decide to make the switch? And, what did that transition look like?
I started out doing interface design for games and computer programs. Then I moved into designing websites and logos. Eventually, I found my way to surface pattern designs and knew immediately this was where I was meant to be. It took a long time but I am glad I finally found it! It is the perfect combination of layout and illustration and my love for flowers and plants mainly.
3. What’s something you’d like people to know about surface design?
While there are many courses out there teaching the business of surface pattern design, it is important to remember that having drawing skills and practicing those skills is essential. The competition is high, like most industries, and this one is no exception. I have seen a lot of people call themselves surface pattern designers, but when I look at their work, they are more focused on marketing themselves and not focused on creating high-quality work.
4. How do photos support your marketing goals?
I feel that having professional photos is important for conveying the professionalism of your work. Showing your work from another angle besides your phone is critical. Also, some professional headshots will go a long way into marketing yourself and your brand.
Not sure what to wear for your professional headshots? We’ve got you covered with three tips for a killer shoot.
5. What's something in your business that you've been excited about this year?
I am always excited about the next launch of a product that has been in the works. As designers, we always work far ahead of when products are made—being patient is key. This year I had a Birkenstock shoe collection launch, as well as a wall calendar about pollinators and a book about chickens! Plus, a card in Trader Joe’s!
6. What’s one piece of advice for entrepreneurs or small businesses who are just getting started?
Educate yourself as much as possible about the particular niche you are breaking into. There is so much information out there, you really can find the info you need. Don’t be afraid to create a website and show up on Instagram or other social media sites. It’s important that people can see your work and you never know where your next job will come from. It doesn’t need to be perfect before launching either. Just get it started and refine it as you go!
7. Who are three fellow founders or small businesses that you admire?
Hard to narrow it down to just three, but I’ll try. Right now, these are some of the people I am admiring:
I love the work of Cecilia Pettersson. She is a Swedish designer and illustrator whose work is so unique and modern. Her work always surprises me.
I also admire Jill Labieniec, a designer in Washington. I appreciate her strong signature style and think she has found the perfect products for her aesthetic.
My sister, Eileen O’Shea. Eileen has a handmade jewelry business. I admire that she is self-taught and makes gorgeous work inspired by lichen and mushrooms that she finds while out hiking in the Pacific Northwest.
Thanks, Katie! You can follow along with Katie on Instagram at @katie_oshea_design or head over to katieosheadesign.com to browse her gorgeous prints! Want headshots, a brand shoot or product photos of your own? Shoot us a note to find out more about packages and details.
